Read Online Lab Notes: a novel by Gerrie Nelson - Free Book Online Page B
Authors: Gerrie Nelson
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exciting stuff.”
“This elaborate intruder alarm system—Maggie—was it just for fun or was it a serious project for Harry Lee?” Vincent asked.
“It’s a prototype for an ingenious biometric device. He was working on a real-time personal identification system more accurate than fingerprinting, and even more reliable than DNA testing.
“Interesting,” Diane said.
“If you can bear with me, I’ll try to pick my way through the rationale of his invention. Please don’t be offended if I get too basic.”
The Roses mumbled their assurances that it wouldn’t be a problem.
“Harry used Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a basis for his identification system. Maggie here operates on a technology that’s similar to the MRI used as a diagnostic tool in hospitals, and you may have used it the laboratory.”
The Roses acknowledged that they had indeed used an MRI system.
“As you probably know, the inventors of the MRI noted that the protons in the nucleus of every hydrogen atom in our bodies spin randomly in various directions. It’s my understanding that powerful magnetic fields created by the MRI align our protons like soldiers in a row, then a radio frequency pulse causes certain protons to spin in a particular direction. When the RF pulse is turned off, the protons return to their former alignment and release energy. The energy release is converted to mathematical data. The data, in turn, creates a picture. Are you with me so far? “
Diane and Vincent nodded.
Jerry went on to describe Harry Lee’s theory. Harry had gone a step or two further than the MRI developers. Dr. Lee postulated that the speed and direction of proton and electron movement in the body create an electronic signal that is different for each and every individual—your electromagnetic signature.
Jerry pointed to two vertical strips, with a pegboard pattern, attached inside the frame. “Harry added the ability to recognize an individual’s slightest motion using some way-out hocus-pocus kinetic theory. He planned to miniaturize it so an ID could be made with just a wiggle of the subject’s finger. Credit card companies and banks were already interested in the technology.”
Diane questioned whether BRI planned to continue the development of Harry Lee’s technology.
Jerry said, “I seriously doubt that it can be completed without Harry’s help.”
Before they moved on, Jerry let them peek into the temperature-controlled electronics room at the rear of the data area. He pointed out an impressive array of servers and assured them that BRI’s information technology system could handle all the data they could possibly pump into it.
The last part of the tour took them to the offices across from the labs. Jerry went from room to room switching on lights and soft music. “I’ll leave you to your own discoveries now,” he said, looking at his watch. “Lunch will be served in an hour aboard the Enterprise .
“The quickest way to the marina is through those double doors, then turn left to the back elevator. And by the way, Raymond said that the Enterprise captain Colton Fey will be available to open up Woodwind if you’re interested in seeing her.” Then, promising the Roses he’d see them at lunch, Jerry headed for the door.
Diane and Vincent walked slowly through the offices, gaping at the opulence around them. The suite included a large conference room with ebony table, plush seating, built in credenza, bar and wine cooler, and wall-mounted viewing monitor for presentations.
Lacquered ebony desks, bookshelves, credenzas and computer stations furnished a reception area and the three large offices that clustered around it. A dichromatic scheme of gray and subtle turquoise dominated the walls and carpets. Large water-color paintings of brilliant roseate spoonbills standing in muted turquoise marshes provided a focal point for every room. Diane took mental possession of the corner office. She stood before floor-to-ceiling windows
“This elaborate intruder alarm system—Maggie—was it just for fun or was it a serious project for Harry Lee?” Vincent asked.
“It’s a prototype for an ingenious biometric device. He was working on a real-time personal identification system more accurate than fingerprinting, and even more reliable than DNA testing.
“Interesting,” Diane said.
“If you can bear with me, I’ll try to pick my way through the rationale of his invention. Please don’t be offended if I get too basic.”
The Roses mumbled their assurances that it wouldn’t be a problem.
“Harry used Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a basis for his identification system. Maggie here operates on a technology that’s similar to the MRI used as a diagnostic tool in hospitals, and you may have used it the laboratory.”
The Roses acknowledged that they had indeed used an MRI system.
“As you probably know, the inventors of the MRI noted that the protons in the nucleus of every hydrogen atom in our bodies spin randomly in various directions. It’s my understanding that powerful magnetic fields created by the MRI align our protons like soldiers in a row, then a radio frequency pulse causes certain protons to spin in a particular direction. When the RF pulse is turned off, the protons return to their former alignment and release energy. The energy release is converted to mathematical data. The data, in turn, creates a picture. Are you with me so far? “
Diane and Vincent nodded.
Jerry went on to describe Harry Lee’s theory. Harry had gone a step or two further than the MRI developers. Dr. Lee postulated that the speed and direction of proton and electron movement in the body create an electronic signal that is different for each and every individual—your electromagnetic signature.
Jerry pointed to two vertical strips, with a pegboard pattern, attached inside the frame. “Harry added the ability to recognize an individual’s slightest motion using some way-out hocus-pocus kinetic theory. He planned to miniaturize it so an ID could be made with just a wiggle of the subject’s finger. Credit card companies and banks were already interested in the technology.”
Diane questioned whether BRI planned to continue the development of Harry Lee’s technology.
Jerry said, “I seriously doubt that it can be completed without Harry’s help.”
Before they moved on, Jerry let them peek into the temperature-controlled electronics room at the rear of the data area. He pointed out an impressive array of servers and assured them that BRI’s information technology system could handle all the data they could possibly pump into it.
The last part of the tour took them to the offices across from the labs. Jerry went from room to room switching on lights and soft music. “I’ll leave you to your own discoveries now,” he said, looking at his watch. “Lunch will be served in an hour aboard the Enterprise .
“The quickest way to the marina is through those double doors, then turn left to the back elevator. And by the way, Raymond said that the Enterprise captain Colton Fey will be available to open up Woodwind if you’re interested in seeing her.” Then, promising the Roses he’d see them at lunch, Jerry headed for the door.
Diane and Vincent walked slowly through the offices, gaping at the opulence around them. The suite included a large conference room with ebony table, plush seating, built in credenza, bar and wine cooler, and wall-mounted viewing monitor for presentations.
Lacquered ebony desks, bookshelves, credenzas and computer stations furnished a reception area and the three large offices that clustered around it. A dichromatic scheme of gray and subtle turquoise dominated the walls and carpets. Large water-color paintings of brilliant roseate spoonbills standing in muted turquoise marshes provided a focal point for every room. Diane took mental possession of the corner office. She stood before floor-to-ceiling windows
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